Željava Air Base

Željava Air Base was the largest military air base in former Yugoslavia, and at the time, one of the largest in Europe. It was known as "Objekat 505" (Eng. "Object 505"). The core of the airbase is inside 3.5 kilometers of large tunnels dug deep in the foothill of Lička Plješivica mountain. The tunnels were protected with steel and concrete doors that could withstand a nuclear blast, making the place in fact a nuclear bunker. The airstrips are still visible but not for use today (except for cars and motorcycles :)) The complex was functionally connected with the surveillance and radar military complex at the summit of the mountain - see Gola Plješivica. Both places are deserted today, as during The Croatian War of Independence Yugoslav forces blew up the facilities and equipment in the bunker while retreating from the area. Everything there remained practically frozen in time. Apart from paved roads, the area is still unsecure because of landmines. There's also a lot of trash. I think this is a great potential that could and should be re-vitalized. Anyway, one will find urban explorers, migrants and police there. Just don't go away from the road and take care of the state border.

If you are traveling in this part, be sure to stop by the largest underground airport and military air base in Yugoslavia, and one of the largest in Europe. The facilities are shared by the local governments of Bihać and Lika-Senj County in Croatia. Definitely a special experience, because you really don't see places like this often and it's part of history. At first glance dark and a bit sad, Zeljava is a wonderful trip.

Cool location to visit, strange exciting atmosphere.

Top urbex place! Easy to find with google maps.

An abandoned military air base, hidden in a hill.